Saskatchewan Polytechnic Aboriginal Nursing Student Achievement Program

PURPOSE: To provide a holistic approach to nursing education for First Nations and Métis people, which will support the development of skills and knowledge to participate fully in Saskatchewan’s economy.

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MINISTRY

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Saskatchewan Polytechnic in partnership with the Ministry of Advanced Education, Government of Saskatchewan

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DESCRIPTION

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Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Aboriginal Nursing Student Achievement Program offers a range of support and counselling services focused on recruiting and retaining Aboriginal nursing students with the objective of improving education attainment and increasing labour market attachment.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic Aboriginal student advisors lead the program by providing customized support plans to individuals based on their needs along the way. This may include selecting a nursing program, assisting with bursary applications, housing/child care, providing study circles, and access to elders and employment to lifelong learning opportunities. As dedicated role-models and coaches, these advisors are familiar with the challenges students face and understand the importance of Aboriginal culture and traditions in a nursing education journey.

The program is a multi-year initiative and is linked to Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s institution-wide Aboriginal Student Achievement Program that promotes welcoming campuses and culturally appropriate learning environments.

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FURTHER INFORMATION

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Saskatchewan Polytechnic

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RESULTS

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The Aboriginal Nursing Student Achievement Program has contributed to the increase in enrolment at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. In January 2015, the institution reported total Aboriginal enrolment was up 7 percent (almost 3,300 students from last year) in the most recent student census and Aboriginal students represent 18.5 percent of the student population.

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